movieshttp://www.maclife.com/taxonomy/term/226/all
enNew App Recap 2/9/15: PaintCan, Mail Pilot 2, and more!http://www.maclife.com/article/gallery/new_app_recap_2915_paintcan_mail_pilot_2_and_more
<!--paging_filter-->http://www.maclife.com/article/gallery/new_app_recap_2915_paintcan_mail_pilot_2_and_more#commentsGalleryAppLifeAppscalendarsColumnsEmailiOSmoviesnewspaintingremindersshoppingWorkiPadiPhoneiPodMon, 09 Feb 2015 22:16:19 +0000J.R. Bookwalter21282 at http://www.maclife.comMagneto Now in Talks to Play Steve Jobshttp://www.maclife.com/article/news/magneto_now_talks_play_steve_jobs
<!--paging_filter--><p>Danny Boyle may have lost his leading man of choice for the role of Steve Jobs in his upcoming biopic, but the <em>Slumdog Millionaire</em> director isn't ready to give up. Just a day after word surfaced that <a href="http://www.maclife.com/article/news/christian_bale_says_no_steve_jobs_role" target="_blank">Christian Bale </a>would no longer be playing Apple's visionary but bad-tempered co-founder, news came in from <a href="http://variety.com/2014/film/news/michael-fassbender-in-talks-to-play-steve-jobs-in-biopic-1201346741/" target="_blank">Variety</a> that Michael Fassbender was already in talks to take over the role.</p><p>It could work, but Fassbender doesn't seem as safe of a choice as Bale and Leonardo di Caprio were. His best-known role so far is that of young Magneto in the latest X-Men movies, followed closely by the android David in <em>Prometheus</em>. But he's certainly one of Hollywood's most notable rising stars. His work as Edwin Epps in <em>12 Years a Slave</em> earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor, and he wowed critics and audiences alike in <em>Inglourious Basterds</em> and <em>Shame</em>.</p><p><img src="/files/u334114/2014/11/fassbender1.jpg" width="620" height="349" /></p><p>The question remains as to whether Fassbender can pull off the range needed for the role. The production itself has been mired with setbacks almost since we first heard about it, whether it's because of the departure of A-list actors like Bale or even directors in the case of <a href="http://www.maclife.com/article/news/overnight_recap_screens_3_mac_fincher_jobs_biopic_windows_passbook" target="_blank">David Fincher</a>, who dropped out owing to alleged contract disputes.</p><p>Aaron Sorkin, best known as the screenwriter for similarly tech-related <em>The Social Network</em>, penned the script, which reportedly focuses on Jobs' involvement in the development of the first Mac, NeXT, and the iPod.</p><p><em>Follow this article's writer,<a href="https://twitter.com/LeifJohnson" target="_blank"> Leif Johnson</a>, on Twitter.</em></p>http://www.maclife.com/article/news/magneto_now_talks_play_steve_jobs#commentsNewsApple historybiopicchristian balecinemahistory of AppleMichael FassbendermoviesSteve JobsWed, 05 Nov 2014 00:08:19 +0000Leif Johnson20887 at http://www.maclife.comSeth Rogen Likely to Play Steve 'Woz' Wozniak in New Steve Jobs Biopichttp://www.maclife.com/article/news/seth_rogen_likely_play_steve_woz_wozniak_new_steve_jobs_biopic
<!--paging_filter--><p>According to a report by <a href="http://variety.com/2014/film/news/seth-rogen-steve-wozniak-steve-jobs-biopic-1201338038/" target="_blank">Variety</a>, actor Seth Rogen will likely be playing Apple co-founder Steve "Woz" Wozniak in the upcoming <a href="http://www.maclife.com/article/news/christian_bale_talks_portray_steve_jobs_upcoming_biopic?utm_source=Social&amp;utm_medium=Twitter&amp;utm_campaign=Owned" target="_blank">Steve Jobs biopic </a>starring Christian Bale. There's a touch of iffiness about the claim as <a href="http://www.thewrap.com/seth-rogen-eyed-to-play-apples-steve-wozniak-in-christian-bales-steve-jobs-movie-exclusive/" target="_blank">TheWrap</a> notes that Rogen doesn't have a deal in place, but most sources agree that Rogen is at least in talks for the role.</p><p>Rogen will reportedly get to work with Woz himself for advice on the role, which is based on Walter Isaacson's bestselling biography of Jobs. The screenplay itself, written by <a href="http://www.maclife.com/article/news/acclaimed_screenwriter_aaron_sorkin_submits_script_new_steve_jobs_movie" target="_blank">Aaron Sorkin</a> of <em>The Social Network</em> fame, consists of three lengthy scenes corresponding to three major product launches from Jobs' life. Danny Boyle, best known for films like <em>Slumdog Millionaire</em> and<em> 28 Days Later</em>, will direct the film.</p><p><img src="/files/u334114/2014/10/rogen.jpg" width="620" height="413" /></p><p><strong>Source: <a href="http://blogs.indiewire.com/womenandhollywood/hollywood-feminist-of-the-day-seth-rogen" target="_blank">IndieWire</a></strong></p><p>Rogen himself is usually best known for his comedic work in films like <em>Superbad</em> and <em>The 40-Year-Old Virgin</em>, but lately he's tackled more serious work in films like <em>Take This Waltz</em> to much acclaim. Sorkin's script might allow for both ends of his range. As for Woz, he left Apple way back in 1987, but media outlets still often seek his opinion on the latest developments from the Cupertino company he founded.</p><p>The followup report from TheWrap also claims that Jessica Chastain of <em>Zero Dark Thirty</em>&nbsp;fame is&nbsp;also in talks for the film, although the role in consideration currently isn't known. Production will reportedly begin sometime next spring.</p><p><em>Follow this article's writer,<a href="https://twitter.com/LeifJohnson" target="_blank"> Leif Johnson</a>, on Twitter.</em></p>http://www.maclife.com/article/news/seth_rogen_likely_play_steve_woz_wozniak_new_steve_jobs_biopic#commentsNewsAaron SorkinApple historybiopicchristian baleDanny Boylehistory of AppleMoviemoviesSteve JobsThu, 30 Oct 2014 22:14:21 +0000Leif Johnson20866 at http://www.maclife.comChristian Bale in Talks to Portray Steve Jobs in Upcoming Biopichttp://www.maclife.com/article/news/christian_bale_talks_portray_steve_jobs_upcoming_biopic
<!--paging_filter--><p>A new report from <a href="http://variety.com/2014/film/news/christian-bale-in-talks-to-star-in-jobs-1201330878/" target="_blank">Variety</a> claims that Christian Bale is currently in talks to star in the upcoming <a href="http://www.maclife.com/article/news/acclaimed_screenwriter_aaron_sorkin_submits_script_new_steve_jobs_movie" target="_blank">Aaron Sorkin-penned</a> biopic, which has been plagued with false starts and changing team members almost since news of it first surfaced. Just last month, Leonardo DiCaprio was considering portraying the Apple co-founder, but he <a href="http://www.maclife.com/article/news/morning_report_cheaper_beats_music_iphone_6_plus_shipments_rise_who_plays_jobs" target="_blank">reportedly withdrew </a>out of a desire for a lengthy break.</p><p>The project is currently helmed by director Danny Boyle of <em>Slumdog Millionaire </em>fame, who was reported to have taken over from <em>The Social Network</em> director David Fincher earlier in the month. The twist is that Fincher claimed <a href="http://www.maclife.com/article/news/david_fincher_wants_christian_bale_play_steve_jobs_upcoming_biopic" target="_blank">way back in March</a> that he'd only direct the film if he could get Bale in the title role, and whether because of timing or negotiations, Boyle appears to have accomplished what Fincher could not. The report claims that filming could start as early as next spring.</p><p><img src="/files/u334114/2014/10/bale.jpg" width="620" height="416" /></p><p><strong>Source: <a href="http://filmjunkee.com/2014/03/21/david-fincher-wants-christian-bale-steve-jobs/" target="_blank">FilmJunkee</a></strong></p><p>Bale, who already resembles Jobs to an impressive degree, seems like a natural for the role. A gifted actor, he's also well-known for rapidly altering his physical appearance to meet the demands of a role, and his <a href="http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/celebritynews/4508022/Christian-Bale-rant-Full-transcript.html" target="_blank">infamous expletive-packed tirade</a> against crewman Shane Hurlbut on the set of <em>Terminator Salvation</em> shows he can channel the volatile temper Jobs was known for.</p><p>The Boyle film will be the second to follow Jobs' life following his death in 2011. The first, starring Ashton Kutcher, was widely panned despite an impressive performance from Kutcher himself. The upcoming Sorkin film reportedly focuses on three key product launches of Jobs' life, with each product's story taking up around 30 minutes' worth of screentime. No release date for the film has been set at this time.</p><p><em>Follow this article's writer, <a href="https://twitter.com/LeifJohnson" target="_blank">Leif Johnson</a>, on Twitter.</em></p>http://www.maclife.com/article/news/christian_bale_talks_portray_steve_jobs_upcoming_biopic#commentsNewsAaron SorkinApple historyAshton Kutchersbiopicchristian baleDanny Boyledavid fincherFilmmoviesSteve JobsWed, 15 Oct 2014 23:23:34 +0000Leif Johnson20787 at http://www.maclife.comNew App Recap: October 6, 2014 http://www.maclife.com/article/gallery/new_app_recap_october_6_2014
<!--paging_filter-->http://www.maclife.com/article/gallery/new_app_recap_october_6_2014#commentsGalleryAppLifeAppsbankingiOSmessagingmoviesnewsproductivityshoppingTwitteriPadiPhoneiPodMon, 06 Oct 2014 22:26:31 +0000J.R. Bookwalter20740 at http://www.maclife.comShowtime Anytime Channel Comes to Apple TVhttp://www.maclife.com/article/news/showtime_anytime_channel_comes_apple_tv
<!--paging_filter--><p>The <a href="http://www.maclife.com/article/news/new-apple-tv-delayed-wont-launch-before-2015" target="_blank">big update to Apple TV </a>may still be in the works, but in the meantime, everyone's favorite Cupertino company has expanded the device's current offerings with the addition of a Showtime Anytime channel. Notably, the channel acts as both an on-demand channel and way to view subscription content if you already have the channel through a cable provider.</p><p>There's a good chance you can run the channel if you live in the States and have both a cable connection and a subscription to Showtime. Supported providers include AT&amp;T U-Verse, Bright House Networks, Comcast Xfinity, Cox, DIRECTV, Optimum, Time Warner Cable, Verizon FiOS — along with a massive number of regional providers. The channel also reportedly allows the viewing of full episodes from select shows for free, although it's unclear what these programs are.</p><p><img src="/files/u334114/2014/08/showtimeanytime.jpg" width="620" height="244" /></p><p>The addition of the Showtime Anytime channel allows Apple TV owners to watch popular shows such as <em>Dexter</em>, <em>Homeland</em>, <em>Californication</em>, <em>House of Lies</em>, <em>Ray Donovan</em>, and <em>The Tudors</em> on Apple's diminutive entertainment device, as well as Showtime's normally impressive list of premium movies.</p><p>The news follows on the heels of today's earlier announcement that Apple had revived the iTunes Festival Channel for the device, which we covered in today's <a href="http://www.maclife.com/article/news/morning_report_itunes_festival_additions_california_smartphone_bill_now_law" target="_blank">Morning Report</a>. Earlier in the month, Apple also added <a href="http://www.maclife.com/article/news/nfl_now_brings_premium_football_content_apple_tv" target="_blank">NFL Now</a>, <a href="http://www.maclife.com/article/news/cnbc_and_fox_now_come_apple_tv" target="_blank">Fox Now, and CNBC</a>. As for the highly anticipated Apple TV refresh? It's likely that we won't see it until sometime next year.</p><p><em>Follow this article's writer, <a href="https://twitter.com/LeifJohnson" target="_blank">Leif Johnson</a>, on Twitter.</em></p>http://www.maclife.com/article/news/showtime_anytime_channel_comes_apple_tv#commentsNewsApple TVCalifornicationChannelsDexterHomelandiOS 7moviesShowtimeShowtime AnytimetelevisionTue, 26 Aug 2014 23:52:06 +0000Leif Johnson20534 at http://www.maclife.comiTunes 11.3 Brings iTunes Extras to Apple TV, Song Previews Get Shorterhttp://www.maclife.com/article/news/itunes_113_brings_itunes_extras_apple_tv_song_previews_get_shorter
<!--paging_filter--><p><img src="/files/u220903/apple_tv_itunes_extras_620px.png" alt="iTunes Extras on Apple TV" width="620" height="300" /></p><p>As anyone who's been following Apple for some time will tell you, Cupertino gives, but they can also take away. Such is the case with this week's iTunes 11 update, which seems to have arrived in tandem with shorter song previews.<br /><a href="http://www.loopinsight.com/2014/07/10/apple-adds-itunes-extras-to-apple-tv-ios-8/" target="_blank"><br /></a>Apple released <a href="http://support.apple.com/kb/DL1614" target="_blank">iTunes 11.3</a> on Thursday, a significant update for HD movie lovers that delivers DVD and Blu-ray style special features to the Apple TV, and also to iOS 8 later this fall.<br /><br />"iTunes 11.3 includes all-new iTunes Extras for HD movies," the release notes explain. "iTunes Extras can include behind-the-scenes videos, short films, high-resolution image galleries, director's commentary, scenes, and more."<br /><br />Of course, <a href="http://www.apple.com/itunes/working-itunes/enhance/extras/" target="_blank">iTunes Extras</a> have been with us for some time: Buy many Hollywood blockbusters on iTunes, and sometimes they come with a bonus feature or two. The difference here is, the content is now based in the cloud and can be updated dynamically as studios choose to roll out new extras.<br /><br />This also marks the first time iTunes Extras can be viewed on Apple TV (which requires Software Update 6.2, available now), and Apple will continue to add such extras to your account as studios make them available, at no extra charge. iTunes Extras will also be part of iOS 8 when it launches later this year.<br /><br />Everything isn't wine and roses with iTunes this week, however: <a href="http://www.macrumors.com/2014/07/10/apple-cuts-song-previews/" target="_blank">MacRumors reported Thursday</a> that Apple has started cutting back song previews back to 30 seconds in many cases, reduced from 90 seconds for songs longer than two minutes and 30 seconds, a change implemented in 2010.<br /><br />Although the change appears to have rolled out with some new releases on Tuesday and isn't directly tied to the iTunes 11.3 update, many music lovers are feeling cheated by the move, which could presumably be tied to some kind of thorny licensing issue.<br /><br />No one is sure yet if shorter song previews is an ominous sign of things to come (again) or just a ghost somewhere in the machine, but we've reached out to Apple for comment and will update this post if and when they issue a statement.<br /><br /><em>Follow this article’s author, <a href="https://twitter.com/JRBTempe" target="_blank">J.R. Bookwalter on Twitter</a><br /><br />(Image courtesy of 9to5Mac)</em></p><p>&nbsp;</p>http://www.maclife.com/article/news/itunes_113_brings_itunes_extras_apple_tv_song_previews_get_shorter#commentsNewsApple TVbonus contentdigital musicHollywoodiOS 8itunes 11iTunes Extrasmoviessong previewsspecial featuresiPadiPhoneiPodMacFri, 11 Jul 2014 12:17:17 +0000J.R. Bookwalter20302 at http://www.maclife.comUnited Airlines App Update Allows Free Media Streaming on Flightshttp://www.maclife.com/article/news/united_airlines_app_update_allows_free_media_streaming_flights
<!--paging_filter--><p class="p1"><img src="/files/u297092/united.jpg" width="620" height="248" /></p><p class="p1">Back in March, United Airlines announced that it would be updating both its iOS app and fleet to allow travelers to <a href="http://www.maclife.com/article/news/united_airlines_let_travelers_stream_select_media_iphones_ipads_free">view free movies and television shows</a> while connected to its Wi-Fi network. Today, <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/app/id449945214?mt=8">the app update went through</a> to complete that process.</p><p class="p1">Using United’s app, passengers will be able to view more than 150 movies and nearly 200 TV shows in the air when on planes that offer Wi-Fi access. It’s unclear whether you’ll need to pay for the Wi-Fi access to view media, or if simply connecting to the network will enable the service.</p><p class="p1">The service was expected to reach Airbus A319 and 320 and Boeing 747-400 and 777-200 planes first before spreading to other fleet models. Those with upcoming flights can check for availability under the Amenities tab on the app (or the Inflight Amenities section on <a href="http://www.united.com" target="_blank">united.com</a>) within 48 hours before takeoff.</p><p class="p1">United says that laptop users can also access the service — we imagine pointing your browser towards united.com should help start that process — while an Android app update will bring the service to that platform later this year.</p>http://www.maclife.com/article/news/united_airlines_app_update_allows_free_media_streaming_flights#commentsNewsflightFlyingiOSiPadiphoneiPod and iPhoneiPod touchmediamoviestelevisiontravelunited airlinesiPadiPhoneiPodWed, 07 May 2014 22:26:48 +0000Andrew Hayward19913 at http://www.maclife.comNFB StopMo Studio Reviewhttp://www.maclife.com/article/reviews/nfb_stopmo_studio_review
<!--paging_filter--><p>Our neighbors to the north have a long and colorful history of strong public funding of the arts, and NFB StopMo Studio from the National Film Board of Canada demonstrates that a government agency can indeed create something of true value for the creative minds of the world. It’s perhaps the single most usable, slick, and capable stop-motion creator we’ve seen on iPad, and it’s a truly unbeatable value for aspiring movie makers.</p><p><img src="/files/u338318/2014/04/stopmo.1.png" width="620" height="465" /></p><p>StopMo Studio is very obviously designed by animators, as the interface makes the process of grabbing consecutive still images effortless. An onscreen grid helps with aligning elements, and the implementation of the “onion-skinning” feature is clever, with a slider fading between the last captured frame and the current live one coming in via either iPad camera. While we wish we could visually overlay more than a pair of frames at a time, it’s a minor quibble for anyone but the most seasoned cel animation fanatic. The time-lapse feature is perfectly suited for creating stuttering video clips, with fixed choices ranging from multiple frames a second to snapping a single shot every 24 hours. We like the fact that you can do such long intervals, but it would have also been nice to include the ability to precisely specify a custom time period.</p><p>Besides capturing images from either camera, you can also import images, as well as create frames of solid color, add text cards, or even use a very decent set of painting tools to draw on top of captured or imported frames. And the inclusion of a basic layering ability lets you keep your graphics separate from the main background image. The lack of a graphics text tool means you can’t easily create word balloons—another minor omission we’d love to see addressed in a future update.</p><p>Beyond the one video “track,” NFB StopMo Studio also features four audio tracks for adding music and recorded sound effects, plus a separate FX track for inserting audio effects from a built-in library. Final animations can be saved as video files to your gallery, and then you can freely share your mini masterpieces as desired.</p><p><strong>The bottom line.</strong> While some minor tweaks and additions would sweeten the pot, NFB StopMo Studio is the iPad cel animation tool to beat, with a wide array of abilities and total ease of use.</p><fieldset class="fieldgroup group-the-bottom-line"><legend>Review Synopsis</legend><div class="field field-type-text field-field-product">
<div class="field-label"><p><strong>Product:</strong>&nbsp;<p></div>
<div class="field-items">
<div class="field-item odd">
<!--paging_filter--><p><a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/nfb-stopmo-studio/id828606885?mt=8">NFB StopMo Studio&nbsp;1.1</a></p> </div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="field field-type-text field-field-company">
<div class="field-label"><p><strong>Company:</strong>&nbsp;<p></div>
<div class="field-items">
<div class="field-item odd">
National Film Board of Canada </div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="field field-type-text field-field-contact">
<div class="field-label"><p><strong>Contact:</strong>&nbsp;<p></div>
<div class="field-items">
<div class="field-item odd">
<!--paging_filter--><p><a href="http://www.nfb.ca" target="_blank">www.nfb.ca</a></p> </div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="field field-type-text field-field-price">
<div class="field-label"><p><strong>Price:</strong>&nbsp;<p></div>
<div class="field-items">
<div class="field-item odd">
$0.99 </div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="field field-type-text field-field-requirements">
<div class="field-label"><p><strong>Requirements:</strong>&nbsp;<p></div>
<div class="field-items">
<div class="field-item odd">
<!--paging_filter--><p>iPad running iOS 6.0 or later</p> </div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="field field-type-text field-field-positives">
<div class="field-label"><p><strong>Positives:</strong>&nbsp;<p></div>
<div class="field-items">
<div class="field-item odd">
<!--paging_filter--><p>Intuitive interface. Robust frame control. Extensive editing options.</p> </div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="field field-type-text field-field-negatives">
<div class="field-label"><p><strong>Negatives:</strong>&nbsp;<p></div>
<div class="field-items">
<div class="field-item odd">
<!--paging_filter--><p>Onion skinning limited to a pair of frames. Needs text overlay for graphics.</p> </div>
</div>
</div>
</fieldset>
http://www.maclife.com/article/reviews/nfb_stopmo_studio_review#commentsGalleryReviewsAnimationapp store reviewsAppLifeAppsCanadacartoonsFilmmoviesNational Film BoardNFBSoftwarestop motionStopMo StudiovideoVideo SoftwareiPadTue, 08 Apr 2014 16:47:25 +0000David Biedny19709 at http://www.maclife.comVUDU, Rdio & Crackle Apps Updated with Google Chromecast Supporthttp://www.maclife.com/article/news/vudu_rdio_crackle_apps_updated_google_chromecast_support
<!--paging_filter--><p><img src="/files/u220903/vudu_chromecast_iphone_620px.png" alt="VUDU app Chromecast" width="620" height="300" /></p><p>Google's $35 Chromecast has been hailed as a cost-saving alternative to Apple TV and Roku, but the device has thus far been starved of great content — a problem the Chrome OS dongle is attacking this week with three new services.<br /><br /><a href="http://blog.vudu.com/?p=10872" target="_blank">The VUDU Blog announced Monday</a> that the Walmart-owned video-on-demand service is now available on Chromecast, courtesy of app updates for both iOS and Android as well as the ability to stream content from the Chrome web browser.<br /><br />VUDU support means no set-top box is required to cast movies and TV shows from its service to a Chromecast equipped HDTV in glorious HDX quality. The mobile apps also allow control over video playback and closed captions, and continue casting content to the television even when in the background for full multitasking support.<br /><br />Mac and PC users can also get into the casting game, but they'll need the latest version of the Chrome browser with the Google Cast extension installed. Not all of VUDU's content is Chromecast enabled quite yet, but the company is moving quickly to address that shortcoming.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.google.com/intl/en/chrome/devices/chromecast/apps.html" target="_blank">Google also got a little boost Monday</a> from two other popular streaming services new to the Chromecast game. <a href="http://blog.rdio.com/us/2014/03/introducing_rdio_on_google_chromecast.html" target="_blank">Rdio announced</a> full support for casting songs, albums, stations and playlists to an HDTV, complete with album art displayed on the screen. Chromecast support is available on iOS, Android, and web apps using the Chrome browser on Mac or PC.<br /><br />Last but not least, ad-supported movie and TV show provider <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/crackle-movies-tv/id377951542?mt=8" target="_blank">Crackle</a> also jumped into the Chromecast fray with its latest version 4.1 update for iOS, which has also been "rebuilt from the ground up and optimized for iOS 7." That means no more watching Jerry Seinfeld and a special guest sip coffee on your smartphone or tablet, which sounds good to us....<br /><br /><em>Follow this article’s author, <a href="http://twitter.com/JRBTempe" target="_blank">J.R. Bookwalter on Twitter</a></em></p><p>&nbsp;</p>http://www.maclife.com/article/news/vudu_rdio_crackle_apps_updated_google_chromecast_support#commentsNewsandroidApp Storeapp updatescastingchromeChromecastCrackleGooglemedia streamingmoviesrdioTV ShowsvuduiPadiPhoneiPodMacTue, 01 Apr 2014 13:03:13 +0000J.R. Bookwalter19662 at http://www.maclife.comDisney Movies Anywhere Reviewhttp://www.maclife.com/article/reviews/disney_movies_anywhere_review
<!--paging_filter--><p>Despite the support of nearly every Hollywood studio, cloud locker service Ultraviolet has failed to gain much traction with consumers. Ultraviolet holdout Disney thinks there’s a better way, and the company has released an app to prove it. Disney Movies Anywhere is a free, universal app serving up more than 400 Disney, Pixar, and Marvel movies (no TV shows yet) to any iOS device. Digital-only purchases made via the app are handed off to the iTunes Store, but now include the same kind of Disney Movie Reward perks that DVD and Blu-ray buyers are accustomed to.</p><p><img src="/files/u338318/2014/03/dma_ipad_my_collection_view.jpg" width="620" height="465" /></p><p>While this alone might not be cause for celebration, the slickly produced software also makes older Digital Copy redemptions suddenly more valuable by magically upgrading previously SD quality content to HD at no extra cost. All that’s required is linking the app to an existing iTunes account, which was quick and painless. Although iTunes purchases often cost nearly as much as their disc-based equivalents, DMA makes it convenient to stream or download family favorites in a quality, graphic-rich user interface, complete with bonus features typically reserved for disc-only releases. It’s also perfect for parents, who can sign into their Disney account on a kid’s iOS device, rather than exposing them to everything purchased from iTunes.</p><p>Disney Movies Anywhere also offers a perk that might not be obvious at first. Now that iTunes is included by default when redeeming reward points (which can be done right from inside the app), disc buyers can use their Digital Copy Plus code to also add the movie to another cross-platform streaming provider, such as VUDU or Amazon. If that’s not enough incentive, Disney even throws in a free copy of Pixar’s The Incredibles just for connecting accounts.</p><p>The process still has a few kinks to be worked out, however. Titles occasionally take longer to show up in one or both accounts, often failing to refresh artwork inside Apple’s own Videos app. Disney Movies Anywhere also doesn’t currently offer a Netflix-style subscription—it’s strictly for buying digital versions.</p><p><strong>The bottom line.</strong> Disney Movies Anywhere makes it easy to create a cloud-based collection of your favorite family-friendly movies, and it’s a must for owners of older digital copies.</p><fieldset class="fieldgroup group-the-bottom-line"><legend>Review Synopsis</legend><div class="field field-type-text field-field-product">
<div class="field-label"><p><strong>Product:</strong>&nbsp;<p></div>
<div class="field-items">
<div class="field-item odd">
<!--paging_filter--><p><a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/disney-movies-anywhere-watch/id766894692?mt=8" target="_blank">Disney Movies Anywhere 1.0.10</a></p> </div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="field field-type-text field-field-company">
<div class="field-label"><p><strong>Company:</strong>&nbsp;<p></div>
<div class="field-items">
<div class="field-item odd">
Walt Disney </div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="field field-type-text field-field-contact">
<div class="field-label"><p><strong>Contact:</strong>&nbsp;<p></div>
<div class="field-items">
<div class="field-item odd">
<!--paging_filter--><p><a href="http://www.disneymoviesanywhere.com" target="_blank">www.disneymoviesanywhere.com</a></p> </div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="field field-type-text field-field-price">
<div class="field-label"><p><strong>Price:</strong>&nbsp;<p></div>
<div class="field-items">
<div class="field-item odd">
Free </div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="field field-type-text field-field-requirements">
<div class="field-label"><p><strong>Requirements:</strong>&nbsp;<p></div>
<div class="field-items">
<div class="field-item odd">
<!--paging_filter--><p>iPhone, iPod touch, or iPad running iOS 7.0 or later</p> </div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="field field-type-text field-field-positives">
<div class="field-label"><p><strong>Positives:</strong>&nbsp;<p></div>
<div class="field-items">
<div class="field-item odd">
<!--paging_filter--><p>Cloud-based digital locker for Disney, Pixar, and Marvel movies. Automatic HD upgrades for formerly SD-quality Digital Copy titles. Earn Disney Movie Reward points on iTunes purchases. Includes app-only bonus features.</p> </div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="field field-type-text field-field-negatives">
<div class="field-label"><p><strong>Negatives:</strong>&nbsp;<p></div>
<div class="field-items">
<div class="field-item odd">
<!--paging_filter--><p>Frequent refresh and sync issues. Support iTunes only at launch. No TV shows or “all you can view,” subscription-based streaming. Can only link to different iTunes account every 180 days.</p> </div>
</div>
</div>
</fieldset>
http://www.maclife.com/article/reviews/disney_movies_anywhere_review#commentsGalleryReviewsAnimationapp store reviewsAppLifeAppscartoonsChildrenDisneyFilmFrozenKidsMickey MousemoviesPixarSoftwareiPadiPhoneiPodMon, 24 Mar 2014 19:41:00 +0000J.R. Bookwalter19613 at http://www.maclife.comDavid Fincher Wants Christian Bale to Play Steve Jobs in Upcoming Biopichttp://www.maclife.com/article/news/david_fincher_wants_christian_bale_play_steve_jobs_upcoming_biopic
<!--paging_filter--><p>Last month <a href="http://www.maclife.com/article/news/social_network_director_david_fincher_talks_direct_sonys_steve_jobs_biopic" target="_blank">we reported</a> that David Fincher, the director behind such memorable films as <em>Fight Club</em> and <em>The Social Network</em>, is in talks to direct a Steve Jobs biopic based on Walter Isaacson's acclaimed biography. Apparently those talks are still ongoing, although now Fincher claims he'll only direct the film if acclaimed actor Christian Bales performs in the lead role.</p><p>TheWrap revealed that Fincher expressed this condition during recent meeting with Sony Pictures Entertainment co-chairman Amy Pascal. Bale apparently hasn't been approached about the role.</p><p><img src="/files/u334114/2014/03/bale.jpg" width="620" height="465" /></p><p>Bale is an accomplished actor, famed his his work in Christopher Nolan's<em> Dark Knight</em> trilogy, as well his work in films like American Psycho, <em>American Hustle</em>, and <em>The Fighter</em>. Not only does he bear as passing resemblance to Jobs, but he also has a bit of a temper, as evidenced by expletive-riddled outburst on set of <em>Terminator Salvation</em>. (I'd link it, but it contains enough curse words to last a week.)</p><p>The film continues to attract big names, which means it may fare much better among the critics and at the box office than Ashton Kutcher's poorly received take on the Apple co-founder's life. The script<a href="http://www.maclife.com/article/news/acclaimed_screenwriter_aaron_sorkin_submits_script_new_steve_jobs_movie" target="_blank"> was written</a> by Emmy- and Oscar-winning screenwriter Aaron Sorkin, who worked with Fincher on the Academy Award-winning film <em>The Social Network</em>.</p><p>The film is expected to focus on three notable Apple product launches (and thus three key events in Jobs' life), with each segment running roughly 30 minutes each. Sony is expected to start filming later this year.</p><p><em>Follow this article's writer,<a href="https://twitter.com/LeifJohnson" target="_blank">&nbsp;Leif Johnson</a>, on Twitter.</em></p>http://www.maclife.com/article/news/david_fincher_wants_christian_bale_play_steve_jobs_upcoming_biopic#commentsNewsactingapplebiopiccinemaFilmhistorymoviesSteve JobsThu, 20 Mar 2014 23:44:07 +0000Leif Johnson19594 at http://www.maclife.com'Social Network' Director David Fincher in Talks to Direct Sony's Steve Jobs Biopichttp://www.maclife.com/article/news/social_network_director_david_fincher_talks_direct_sonys_steve_jobs_biopic
<!--paging_filter--><p>Ashton Kutcher's Steve Jobs biopic <a href="http://www.maclife.com/article/news/mixed_reviews_ashton_kutchers_jobs_biopic_roll" target="_blank">may have flopped</a>, but that hasn't deterred others from attempting to make a definitive film based on the life of the former Apple CEO and co-founder. Judging from the names involved, it's possible this new effort could be Oscar material. We've already heard about acclaimed screenwriter Aaron Sorkin's<a href="http://www.maclife.com/article/news/acclaimed_screenwriter_aaron_sorkin_submits_script_new_steve_jobs_movie" target="_blank"> involvement in the project</a>, and now word has come in from<a href="http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/david-fincher-early-talks-direct-682860" target="_blank"><em> The Hollywood Reporter</em></a> that David Fincher of<em> The Social Network</em> fame is in talks to direct it.</p><p>Fincher may only be in talks, but his experience could bring the Jobs-style creative push the project needs. Fincher's <em>The Social Network</em>, which followed the early career of Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg, won three Academy Awards and nabbed five nominations for others, including Best Director and Best Picture.</p><p><img src="/files/u334114/2014/02/stevejobs.jpg" width="620" height="362" /></p><p>Steve Jobs' tale would serve as a worthy followup. In <em>The Reporter</em>'s words, "Like Zuckerberg, Jobs was a complicated visionary who became a polarizing figure. Under Jobs' watch, Apple revolutionized several business, including personal computers, music, computer-generated animation and mobile phones. In the process, he became known as one of the greatest innovators of his generation."</p><p><em>The Social Network </em>isn't<em>&nbsp;</em>the only noteworthy film in Fincher's belt; he's also the mind behind such films as <em>Fight Club</em>, <em>Zodiac</em>, <em>Panic Room</em>, and the American take on <em>The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo</em>. As a bonus, if Fincher does agree to direct the film, he'll join producer Scott Rudin, another <em>Social Network </em>alumnus.</p><p>All promising news, but the project is still very much in its drafting stage. No actors are known to be in talks for the film, and there's not hint of a release date. We do know, however, that Sorkin's script will feature the events surrounding the launch of three important products, and that Apple co-founder Steve Wozniak has agreed to serve as a consultant for the film.</p><p><em>Follow this article's writer,<a href="https://twitter.com/LeifJohnson" target="_blank">&nbsp;Leif Johnson</a>, on Twitter.</em></p>http://www.maclife.com/article/news/social_network_director_david_fincher_talks_direct_sonys_steve_jobs_biopic#commentsNewsapplecinemaFilmmoviessecond time's a charnSteve JobsWed, 26 Feb 2014 23:33:54 +0000Leif Johnson19429 at http://www.maclife.comKen Burns Reviewhttp://www.maclife.com/article/reviews/ken_burns_review
<!--paging_filter--><p>Decades of fascinating and enlightening documentary work by filmmaker Ken Burns form the core of his self-titled app, which draws on close to four hours of footage compiled from documentaries covering a huge breadth of material relating to American history. While we’d have liked to have some longer clips included, careful, almost meticulous design and curation underpins everything. Only the 13-scene, 31-minute innovation playlist is available free, though; the rest of the videos and the other five playlists are locked behind a $9.99 in-app purchase.</p><p><img src="/files/u330237/2014/02/ken-burns-1.jpg" width="620" height="465" /></p><p>This could have easily been a lazy advertisement for Burns' films, which the app points out are all available to buy and watch in full on Netflix, iTunes, and via PBS, but there’s a clear attempt to make the clipped stories stand on their own. Burns tells human stories, which are relatable and moving regardless of whether they’re about your average Joe, a brilliant artist, a gang of murderers, or a larger-than-life legend. And this humanity shines through in the short one-to-five minute clips on offer, as well as through the considered, insightful introductions that Burns provides ahead of a selection of videos.</p><p>Human history is just people making decisions and living their lives, even when extraordinary or terrible things happen, and the app embodies that idea while simultaneously relating events to today. It gets across much of the who, how, and why of big moments in the American story. You’ll see patterns and themes and remarkable ingenuity whether you view videos chronologically, by theme (war, art, race, innovation, hard times, and politics), or by film. You’ll also learn how great architecture was built and how sports and music tied into political and social upheaval or tragedy, and you’ll meet some astonishing people. But it’s hard not to wish for more, in either the form of more clips or longer snippets from the 23 films the scenes are sourced from.</p><p><strong>The bottom line.</strong> Three decades of documentary films covering every facet of American history coalesce into one fascinating, well-produced app, though the length of the clips can disappoint.</p><fieldset class="fieldgroup group-the-bottom-line"><legend>Review Synopsis</legend><div class="field field-type-text field-field-product">
<div class="field-label"><p><strong>Product:</strong>&nbsp;<p></div>
<div class="field-items">
<div class="field-item odd">
<!--paging_filter--><p><a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/ken-burns/id723854283?mt=8" target="_blank">Ken Burns 1.0.5</a></p> </div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="field field-type-text field-field-company">
<div class="field-label"><p><strong>Company:</strong>&nbsp;<p></div>
<div class="field-items">
<div class="field-item odd">
Ken Burns Media </div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="field field-type-text field-field-contact">
<div class="field-label"><p><strong>Contact:</strong>&nbsp;<p></div>
<div class="field-items">
<div class="field-item odd">
<!--paging_filter--><p><a href="http://www.kenburns.com" target="_blank">www.kenburns.com</a></p> </div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="field field-type-text field-field-price">
<div class="field-label"><p><strong>Price:</strong>&nbsp;<p></div>
<div class="field-items">
<div class="field-item odd">
Free </div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="field field-type-text field-field-requirements">
<div class="field-label"><p><strong>Requirements:</strong>&nbsp;<p></div>
<div class="field-items">
<div class="field-item odd">
<!--paging_filter--><p>iPad running iOS 7.0 or later</p> </div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="field field-type-text field-field-positives">
<div class="field-label"><p><strong>Positives:</strong>&nbsp;<p></div>
<div class="field-items">
<div class="field-item odd">
<!--paging_filter--><p>Thoughtful design and presentation. Hours of insightful and fascinating video. Huge variety of historical topics covered.</p> </div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="field field-type-text field-field-negatives">
<div class="field-label"><p><strong>Negatives:</strong>&nbsp;<p></div>
<div class="field-items">
<div class="field-item odd">
<!--paging_filter--><p>Some clips seem unnecessarily short.</p> </div>
</div>
</div>
</fieldset>
http://www.maclife.com/article/reviews/ken_burns_review#commentsReviewsAmericaapp store reviewsAppLifeAppsdocumentaryFilmhistoryiPod and iPhoneKen BurnsmoviesSoftwareUnited StatesiPadGallerySat, 22 Feb 2014 01:34:06 +0000Richard Moss19393 at http://www.maclife.comGoogle Play Movies & TV Comes to iOShttp://www.maclife.com/article/news/google_play_movies_tv_comes_ios
<!--paging_filter--><p>Google Play Music finally made its way to the iPhone after an long wait last last year (and you can read <a href="http://www.maclife.com/article/ipod_and_iphone/google_play_music_review" target="_blank">my review here</a>), and now it looks as though Apple's rival has finally followed up that offering with its Google Play Movies &amp; TV for iOS. Similar to Google Play Music, the app lets you playback and stream content bought through Google Play or on an Android device.</p><p><img src="/files/u334114/2014/01/googleplay_big.jpg" width="620" height="260" /></p><p>Much as with Google Play Music, you won't be able to buy music directly through the app on your iPhone or your iPad owing to Apple's restrictions on such matters; for that, you'll need to head to a browser. Google's also restricting streaming for the app to Wi-Fi connections right now, likely so unwary users don't burn through their data plans on a couple of shows.</p><p>The main attraction of the app seems to be the ability to use it in conjunction with Chromecast to stream content on televisions directly via your iPhone or iPad. The content will play in standard definition if you're just watching it on your iDevice, but Chromecast play bumps it up to HD.</p><p>You can pick up the app for free <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/id746894884" target="_blank">here</a>.</p><p><em>Click here to follow this article's writer,<a href="https://twitter.com/LeifJohnson" target="_blank"> Leif Johnson</a>, on Twitter.</em></p>http://www.maclife.com/article/news/google_play_movies_tv_comes_ios#commentsNewsGoogleiOS 7iPadiphoneiPodmediamoviesstreamingtelevisionTVThu, 16 Jan 2014 01:28:14 +0000Leif Johnson19072 at http://www.maclife.com